The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Wokingham

In January 2020, a step on the Oxford Road side of Wokingham Railway Footbridge collapsed without warning, closing that side immediately. No injuries, but a reminder that “Grade II listed” doesn’t mean indestructible. Built in 1886 after two fatal accidents at the old level crossing, the bridge is a rare Victorian upcycle, made from recycled iron rails and timber sleepers. Its bowstring girder arch flows into the stairs, saving money and headaches. Now Grade II listed and likely the only one left in the UK, it even sports a Blue Plaque—old bridges get more fame than some locals. Closed for repairs in late 2020 and reopened mid-2021, work fixed rusty ironwork, replaced stair treads, and gave it a fresh coat of paint. The cost was part of a £6 million station upgrade. Naturally, the repairs added to local misery, as Wokingham’s overwhelmed roads and facilities coped with more construction and delays. No original blueprints survive, suggesting it was designed on-site, a “just get on with it” Victorian job before health and safety existed. Though a modern footbridge sits inside the station, the historic bridge remains open 24/7 without ticket barriers, offering a quicker route between Station Road and the town centre. Why wouldn’t anyone build this today? It fails almost every modern safety rule: steep stairs, no ramps or lifts. It wouldn’t pass accessibility laws. Reusing old rails and sleepers without testing? Not allowed. Modern bridges need certified materials, detailed plans, and gigs of CAD files. No plans means it was probably designed on the fly. Today’s bridges require more committee approvals than you can count. It also fails clearance, load, weatherproofing, and evacuation codes. Built for pedestrians only, it lacks anything for cyclists, proving bike-friendliness wasn’t quite Dutch-level common-sense priority for England’s officials and planners back then either. Replicating its unique parts would be expensive and nearly impossible to insure, unless your insurer enjoys thrills. In short, Wokingham Railway Footbridge is a charming Victorian oddity surviving on heritage, not engineering merit. Sometimes “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” really means “good luck building this again.”

Has a refurbished beer-garden. Lots of live music, too.

Pub with loyalty card (buy 9 pints, 10th free). Good small meal plates (3 for £17.95, 5 for £29.95). www.lordraglan.co.uk

Old Forest Meadows, locally referred to as 'the worm,' is a hidden treasure nestled along Old Forest Road in Wokingham (nearest postcode RG41 1HL). This SANG (suitable alternative natural greenspace) was once farmland but now serves as an enchanting retreat, inviting you to embrace the local natural beauty. As you meander through this verdant sanctuary, you'll encounter the serene Emm Brook, gracefully crossed by winding paths. Stay attuned to the sights and sounds of wildlife; watch the elusive kingfisher darting along the brook and listen to the harmonious melodies of blackcaps, chiffchaffs, and whitethroats in the woodlands. Occasionally, a solitary kestrel graces the meadow skies, adding to the allure of this natural haven. During mid-summer, the meadows burst into life with vibrant ox-eye daisies, while yellow flag iris thrives along the brook and ponds. Innovative three-stage fencing ensures the safety of the resident wildlife, keeping them separated from the nearby road. Old Forest Meadows is also home to a thriving deer population, often seen passing through the area, adding an enchanting touch to the landscape. As twilight descends, a captivating spectacle unfolds—the emergence of bats. Old Forest Meadows becomes a realm of fluttering wings and echolocation as these nocturnal creatures take flight. Keep your gaze fixed on the evening sky for a glimpse of these fascinating mammals. Dragonflies frequently visit the 'wormponds' scattered around the reserve, their agile movements resembling advanced drones. Beyond its natural allure, Old Forest Meadows offers an excellent recreational haven for locals. The winding paths create an ideal setting for walking, jogging, and cycling. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll, an invigorating jog, or a gentle bike ride, this greenspace accommodates all preferences. Its gravel footpaths ensure accessibility for everyone, including wheelchair users, thanks to gentle inclines. While a dedicated car park is absent, you can conveniently find parking on nearby residential streets. Old Forest Meadows beckons not only wildlife enthusiasts but also those seeking an accessible outdoor experience. It's a place where nature, exercise, and tranquility seamlessly coexist, making it a cherished destination for the local community. Explore the diverse flora and fauna, savor the joy of walking, jogging, or cycling, and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Old Forest Meadows.

You are in front of the oldest building in Wokingham, with nearly a thousand years of history, as it was largely reconstructed in the Norman style after the conquest of 1066. Inside, it is known for its stained glass windows and its ornate high altar.

After two serious accidents, it was decided to build this footbridge in late 1886. Although several footbridges of this type were constructed at the time, very few still exist, and possibly the one in Wokingham is the only one remaining. It is part of the Blue Plaque Trail (you can see its plaque on one of the footbridge's walls) and is a Grade II listed building.

A beautiful greenway path that will take you from north to south through the Woosehill Meadows, walking alongside the Emm Brook the entire time and ending very close to Barkham Road and Wokingham Railway Station.

In this beautiful area located between Winnersh and Emmbrook, you can enjoy wildflower meadows and walks along the various paths around the Emm Brook and the different ponds in the area.